What is the Learner Profile?

At the heart of the IB is the “learner profile”, a long- term, holistic vision of education that underpins all three programmes and puts the student at the centre of everything we do. The learner profile is the IB mission statement translated into a set of learning outcomes for the 21st century. The ten aspirational qualities of the learner profile inspire and motivate the work of teachers, students and schools, providing a statement of the aims and values of the IB and a definition of what we mean by “international-mindedness”.

The learner profile unites us all with a common focus: on the whole person, as a lifelong learner. It applies to us all – student, teacher, parent or administrator – for we are all continually learning.

Inquirers

We nurture our curiosity, developing skills for inquiry and research. 

We know how to learn independently and with others. 

We learn with enthusiasm and sustain our love of learning throughout life.

Knowledgeable

We develop and use conceptual understanding, exploring knowledge across a range of disciplines. 

We engage with issues and ideas that have local and global significance.

Thinkers

We use critical and creative thinking skills to analyse and take responsible action on complex problems. 

We exercise initiative in making reasoned, ethical decisions.

Communicators

We express ourselves confidently and creatively in more than one language and in many ways. 

We collaborate effectively, listening carefully to the perspectives of other individuals and groups

Principled

We act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and justice, and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere. 

We take responsibility for our actions and their consequences.

Open-Minded

We critically appreciate our own cultures and personal histories, as well as the values and traditions of others. 

We seek and evaluate a range of points of view, and we are willing to grow 
from the experience.

Caring

We show empathy, compassion and respect. 

We have a commitment to service, and we act to make a positive difference 
in the lives of others and in the world around us.

Risk-Takers

We approach uncertainty with forethought and determination; we work independently and cooperatively to explore new ideas and innovative strategies. 

We are resourceful and resilient in the face of challenges and change.

Balanced

We understand the importance of balancing different aspects of our lives—
intellectual, physical, and emotional—to achieve well-being for ourselves 
and others. 

We recognize our interdependence with other people and with the world 
in which we live.

Reflective  

We thoughtfully consider the world and our own ideas and experience. 

We work to understand our strengths and weaknesses in order to support our 
learning and personal development.